Surah
Juz
The scholars have debated whether Surah Al-Kawthar was revealed in Makkah or Madinah. While some, like Ibn Marduyah and Kalbi, consider it to be Makkan, others, including Hasan Basri and Ikrimah, argue that it is Madinan. One reason for the Madinan view stems from a tradition narrated by Anas bin Malik, where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned the revelation of Surah Al-Kawthar. However, there are counterarguments against this view. Firstly, other traditions from Anas mention that the river of Paradise mentioned in the Surah was shown to the Prophet ﷺ during the Isra and Mi'raj, which took place in Makkah before the Hijrah. Secondly, if the Prophet ﷺ was already informed about Al-Kawthar during the Mi'raj, there would be no need for its revelation in Madinah. Thirdly, the tradition from Anas lacks details about the context in which the Prophet ﷺ mentioned the revelation of the Surah, leaving room for interpretation. Considering these factors, many commentators maintain that the content and context of Surah Al-Kawthar align more with the Makkan period, characterised by challenging circumstances for the Prophet ﷺ and his followers. Therefore, despite the tradition from Anas, the majority view supports its revelation in Makkah. Surah Al-Kawthar was revealed during a period of intense hardship for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his followers. The Quraysh, his own people, were hostile towards him, spreading rumours and insults to undermine his message and authority. They mocked him, calling him "abtar," meaning cut off from his community and without male descendants to continue his lineage. The loss of his sons added to his grief, while his enemies rejoiced at his misfortune. In the face of such adversity, Allah revealed Surah Al-Kawthar as a source of consolation and reassurance for the Prophet ﷺ. The Surah reminded him that his legacy and influence would endure, despite the mockery and opposition of his adversaries. While his opponents would be cut off and forgotten, the Prophet's ﷺ name and fame would be exalted by Allah. This message of divine support and victory over his enemies provided the Prophet with hope and strength during difficult times. Surah Al-Kawthar serves as a testament to the resilience of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the power of faith in overcoming adversity. It demonstrates Allah's promise to uplift and protect those who remain steadfast in their belief, even in the face of persecution and hardship.
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